How do I avoid losing my horse during a mission with explosives?

Losing your horse during a mission with explosives in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be frustrating, especially if you''ve bonded with your horse and invested in its upgrades. To avoid this, you need to understand the game mechanics and take proactive steps to protect your horse. Explosions in the game can cause significant damage to both you and your horse, so planning ahead is crucial.\n\nFirst, always ensure your horse is at a safe distance before engaging in any explosive-heavy missions. When you approach a mission area, look for a spot where your horse can stay out of harm''s way. For example, during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil IV,'' where you use dynamite to destroy a train, park your horse behind a large rock or tree, far from the explosion radius. This ensures your horse won''t get caught in the blast.\n\nAnother key strategy is to use the ''Stay'' command. When you dismount, hold the ''Call Horse'' button (L2/LT) and select ''Stay'' from the interaction menu. This prevents your horse from wandering into danger. If you''re unsure about the mission''s explosive elements, it''s better to err on the side of caution and keep your horse at a distance. For instance, in the mission ''The King''s Son,'' where you use fire bottles to destroy a moonshine operation, keeping your horse away from the burning structures is essential.\n\nIf your horse does get injured during a mission, immediately use Horse Reviver to save it. Always carry at least one bottle of Horse Reviver in your inventory. You can purchase it from general stores or craft it using specific herbs and tonics. In missions like ''Banking, The Old American Art,'' where explosions are frequent, having Horse Reviver on hand can be a lifesaver.\n\nAdditionally, consider using a temporary horse for explosive-heavy missions. Temporary horses can be acquired by taming wild horses or stealing them from NPCs. While they may not have the same bond level as your main horse, they can serve as a sacrificial option in high-risk situations. For example, during the mission ''An American Pastoral Scene,'' where you use dynamite to blow up a bridge, a temporary horse can be a safer choice.\n\nFinally, always save your game before starting a mission with explosives. This allows you to reload if something goes wrong. To save manually, open the pause menu, go to ''Story,'' and select ''Save Game.'' This is especially useful for missions like ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' where unexpected explosions can occur.\n\nBy following these steps, you can minimize the risk of losing your horse during explosive missions. Always prioritize your horse''s safety, use the ''Stay'' command, carry Horse Reviver, and consider using a temporary horse when necessary. These strategies will help you maintain your bond with your horse and avoid unnecessary setbacks in the game.